FRONTIER-TANZANIA ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH REPORT ...

FRONTIER-TANZANIA ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 

REPORT 90 

Utangulizi juu ya Utafiti wa Bayoanuwai 

Usambara Mashariki (EUBS): Njia za Utafiti 

An Introduction to East Usambara Biodiversity 

Surveys (EUBS) Field Techniques 

Frontier Tanzania 

2002

FRONTIER-TANZANIA ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 

REPORT 90 

Utangulizi juu ya Utafiti wa Bayoanuwai 

Usambara Mashariki (EUBS): Njia za Utafiti 

An Introduction to East Usambara Biodiversity 

Surveys (EUBS) Field Techniques 

Beharrell, N.K., Fanning, E., Hall, S.M. & Muruke, M. (eds) 

Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, 

Tanzania 

Forestry and Beekeeping Division 

Department of International 

Development Co -operation, Finland 

Finnish Forest and Park Service 

Frontier-Tanzania 

University of Dar es Salaam 

Society for Environmental Exploration 

Tanga 2002

Suggested Technical Paper citation: 

Frontier Tanzania (2002) An introduction to the East Usambara Biodiversity Surveys (EUBS) Field 

Techniques. Pp. 16-27. East Usambara Conservation Area Management Programme, Frontier Tanzania 

Environmental Research Report 90. Frontier Tanzania: The Society for Environmental Exploration, 

London, UK and the University if Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. 

Frontier Tanzania (2002) Utangulizi juu ya Utafiti wa Bayoanuwai Usambara Mashariki (EUBS): Njia 

za Utafiti . Pp. 3-14. East Usambara Conservation Area Management Programme, Frontier Tanzania 

Environmental Research Report 90. Frontier Tanzania: The Society for Environmental Exploration, 

London, UK and the University if Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. 

The Frontier-Tanzania Environmental Research Report Series is published by: 

The Society for Environmental Exploration 

50-52 Rivington Street 

London, EC2A 3QP 

United Kingdom 

Tel: +44 (0)20 7613 3061 

Fax: +44 (0)20 7613 2992 

Email: research@frontier.ac.uk 

Web Page: www.frontier.ac.uk 

ISSN 1479-1161 (Print) 

ISSN 1748-3670 (Online) 

ISSN 1748-5124 (CD-ROM) 

© Frontier-Tanzania 2002, 2005

East Usambara Conservation Area Management Programme (EUCAMP) 

The East Usambara rain forests are one of the most valuable conservation areas in Africa. Several plant and 

animal species are found only in the East Usambara mountains. The rain forests secure the water supply of 

200,000 people and the local people in the mountains depend on these forests. The East Usambara 

Conservation Area Management Programme has established the Amani Nature Reserve and aims; at 

protecting water sources; establishing and protecting forest reserves; sustaining villager’s benefits from the 

forest. The programme is implemented by the Forestry and Beekeeping Division of the Ministry of Natural 

Resources and Tourism with financial support from the Government of Finland, and implementation 

support from Indufor / Metsähallitus Group. To monitor the impact of the project, both baseline 

biodiversity assessments and development of a monitoring system are needed. The present activity is aimed 

at establishing baseline information on biological diversity in selected East Usambara forests. 

The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) 

The University of Dar es Salaam was established in July 1970 as a centre for learning and research in the 

arts and the physical, natural, earth, marine, medical and human sciences. The University is surveying and 

mapping the flora and fauna of Tanzania and is conducting research into the maintenance and improvement 

of the environment and the sustainable exploitation of Tanzania’s natural resources. 

The Society for Environmental Exploration (SEE) 

The Society is a non-profit making company limited by guarantee and was formed in 1989. The Society’s 

objectives are to advance field research into environmental issues and implement practical projects 

contributing to the conservation of natural resources. Projects organised by The Society are joint initiatives 

developed in collaboration with national research agencies in co-operating countries. 

Frontier Tanzania Forest Research Programme (FT FRP) 

The Society for Environmental Exploration and the University of Dar es Salaam have been conducting 

collaborative research into environmental issues since July 1989 under the title of Frontier Tanzania, of 

which one component is the Frontier Tanzania Forest Research Programme (FT FRP). Since July 1994, the 

FT FRP has been working in the forests of the East Usambara mountains in collaboration with the East 

Usambara Conservation Area Management Programme (EUCAMP). This survey of selected forests 

collects baseline biodiversity data and assists the EUCAMP in the management of the East Usambara 

forests. 

Forestry and Beekeeping Division 

P.O. Box 426, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania 

Tel: 255-22-2111 062/3/4 

Fax: 255-22-2114 659 

E-mail: misitu@twiga.com 

FOR MORE INFORMATION: 

Department for Develo pment Co-operation 

Ministry for Foreign Affairs 

Katajanokanlaituri 3 

FIN-00160 Helsinki, Finland 

Tel: 358-9-134 161 Fax: 358-9-1341 6293 

East Usambara Conservation Area Management 

Programme 

P.O. Box 5869, Tanga, Tanzania 

Tel: 255-27-2643453, 2646907, 2643820 

Fax: 255-27-2643820 

E-mail: usambara@twiga.com 

Internet: www.usambara.com 

Dept. of Zoology & Marine Biology 

University of Dar es Salaam 

P.O. Box 35064, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania 

Tel: 255-22-2410462 

E-mail: zoology@udsm.ac.tz 

Indufor / Metsähallitus Group 

Töölönkatu 15, FIN-0010 Helsinki, Finland 

Tel: 358-9-6840 1122 

Fax: 358-9-135 2552 

E-mail: indufor@indufor.fi 

Society for Environmental Exploration 

50-52 Rivington Street, London, EC2A 3QP. U.K. 

Tel: +44 20 76 13 24 22 

Fax: +44 20 76 13 29 92 

E-mail: research@frontier.ac.uk 

Internet: www.frontier.ac.uk

UTANGULIZI WA NJIA ZA UTAFITI ZA EUBS / AN INTRODUCTION TO EUBS FIELD TECHNIQUES. 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 

This document was written during the biodiversity survey of Nilo forest reserve and serves as a 

hands on document for practical use for forest officers for future survey and monitoring activities. 

The aim was to present effective, simple explanations of the techniques used during the biodiversity 

surveys. For more in depth information with regard to the survey methodologies, refer to SEE 

(1998). 

EUCAMP 

Project Manager: 

Assistant Project Manager: 

Chief Technical Advisor: 

Biodiversity Co-ordinator 

Biodiversity Co-ordinator 

and Botanical Collector 

Foresters: 

Mr. Evarest Nashanda 

Mr. Matiko Wambura, Mr Mathias Lema 

Dr. Veli Pohjonen 

Mr. Raymond Killenga 

Mr. Albert Ntemi Sallu 

Mr. Raymond Muna, Mr .Juma Ntogolela, Mr. Mussa 

Jackson, Mr. Ally Athumani, Mr. Juma Madege, Mr. 

Abraham Mshihiri, Mr. Said Mdoe, Mr. Malki Obeid, 

Mr. Gerald Otieno, Mr. Rajabu Mzee Ms. Mwanidi 

Hassani, Ms. Agnes Boi, Ms. Asia Ezekiel, Mr. Johari 

Mtango, Mr. Steven John, Mr. Hussein Chowa and Mr. 

Josephat Maingu. 

SOCIETY FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EXPLORATION 

Managing Director: 

Ms. Eibleis Fanning 

Development Programme Manager Ms. Elizabeth Humphreys 

Research Programme Manager: 

Dr. Damon Stanwell-Smith 

Operations Manager: 

Mr. Matthew Willson 

UDSM 

FT Co-ordinators: 

FRONTIER-TANZANIA 

Project Co-ordinator: 

Research Co-ordinator: 

Assistant Research Co-ordinators 

Logistics Managers: 

Field Assistants: 

FT Driver: 

Research Assistants: 

Translator: 

Dr. M. Muruke & Professor K.M. Howell 

Ms. Kathryn Doody 

Ms. Nicola Beharrell 

Ms. Susannah Hall, Mr. David Emmett, 

Mr. Simon Loader 

Mr. David Naish, Ms. Kelly Abram 

Mr. Hussani Adebi, Mr. Ramathan Rajabu, Ms. Zahara 

Rashidi, Mr. Ashraf Omari, Mr. Godfrey Matthew, Mr. 

Francis Kiondo, Mr. Lawrence Mateus 

Mr. Yahara Salimu 

Ms. Sophie Arthurell, Mr. Alastair Barter, Mr. Thomas 

Broder, Mr. Thomas Kellet, Mr. Adam Murphy, 

Ms.Victoria Putman, Mr. Christopher Vallis. 

Mr. Kenneth Danga 

EAST USAMBARA CONSERVATION AREA MANAGEMENT PROGRAMME TECHNICAL PAPER 55 1


Utangulizi juu ya Utafiti wa Bayoanuwai Usambara Mashariki 

(EUBS): Njia za Utafiti 

Yaliyomo 

1.0 Malengo 3 

2.0 Utangulizi 3 

2.1 Kwa nini Misitu ya Usambara Mashariki ni muhimu sana 3 

2.2 Programu ya Utafiti Misitu Frontier Tanzania 4 

2.3 Utafiti wa Bayoanuwai Usambara Mashariki 4 

2.4 Chuo Kikuu cha Dar es Salaam 4 

2.5 Jumuiya ya Uvumbuzi wa Mazingira 5 

3.0 Mbinu na Mpango wa Kazi kwa Ufupi 5 

3.1 Mimea 5 

3.1.1 Mistari ya utafiti 5 

3.1.2 Miraba ya Mimea 6 

3.1.3 Ukusanyaji wa Mimea Isiyotegemewa 8 

(Opportunistic botanical collections) 8 

3.1.4 Utafiti wa Kinyesi na Uharibifu 8 

3.2 Kazi za Kizoolojia 9 

3.2.1 Maeneo ya Mitego 10 

3.2.1.1 Mtego wa Sherman 10 

3.2.1.2 Mtego wa ndoo (Bucket pitfall trapping) 10 

3.2.1.3 Nyavu {Mist netting} (Bats) 10 

3.2.1.4 Vipepeo 10 

3.2.1.5 Konokono na Jongoo 11 

3.2.2 Uchunguzi wa vitu visivyotegemewa (Opportunistic Observations) 11 

4.0 Michoro 12 

5.0 Vifaa Vinavyohitajika 13 

6.0 Rejea 13 

7.0 Muhimu 14 

8.0 Mawasiliano 14 



1.0 MALENGO 

• Kutoa taarifa kwa ufupi kuhusu njia za utafiti, mbinu na mpango wa kazi wa Utafiti wa 

Bayoanuwai Usambara Mashariki (EUBS) kwa Maafisa Misitu wa EUCAMP. 

• Kusaidia mafuzo uwandani. 

• Kusaidia kama Rejea kwa matumizi ya baadae. 

2.0 UTANGULIZI 

2.1 Kwa nini Misitu ya Usambara Mashariki ni muhimu sana 

Milima ya Usambara Mashariki inaunda mnyororo ujulikanao kama Safu ya Mashariki. Milima hii 

inatambaa pembezoni mwa pwani ya Afrika Mashariki kutoka Kusini mwa Kenya hadi Kusini mwa 

Tanzania. Misitu ya hali ya Usambara Mashariki ni moja ya kati ya maeneo ya hifadhi yenye 

thamani sana Afrika. Mimea na Wanyama kadhaa wanapatikana milima ya Usambara Mashariki 

pekee. Misitu hii ya hali inahakikisha upatikanaji wa maji kwa watu 200,000 na wenyeji wa milima 

hii wanategemea misitu hii. 

Zaidi ya miaka mia moja ya udadisi wa kibayolojia na utafiti imeonyesha misitu ya Usambara 

Mashariki inamchanganyiko wa kipekee wa mimea na Wanyama, na hali kubwa ya upekee. 

Imeorodheshwa kuwa eneo tete la bayoanuwai (biodiversity hotspot) na kituo cha mchanganyiko 

mkubwa wa mimea. Misitu hii imefananishwa kwenye mlingano wa kiafrika na visiwa vya Galapagos 

katika misingi ya upekee wake na bayoanuwai (Rogers & Homewood, 1982; Howell, 1989). 

Inachukuliwa kuwa moja ya eneo muhimu katika Afrika (Tye, 1994). Kwa sasa, kiasi cha aina 

2,800 za mimea zimekwisha rekodiwa kiasi ambacho inakisiwa zaidi ya robo ni ya kipekee 

(haipatikani pengine popote ila misitu hii){endemic} au karibia ya kipekee {near-endemic} 

(Iversen, 1991). Aina nyingi ziko katika hatari ya kutoweka (Rodgers, 1996). 

Mbali na thamani ya bayoanuwai, misitu ya Usambara Mashariki ni muhimu kwa kutunza maji. 

Misitu hii inafanya kazi muhimu katika kuendeleza mzunguko wa maji (hydrological cycle) 

unaousaidia mto Sigi. Mto Sigi ni chanzo muhimu cha maji kwa jamii za wenyeji na eneo kubwa la 

Tanga Mjini. Uharibifu wa misitu hii utasababisha kuongezeka kwa mmomonyoko wa udongo na 

hasa kwa sehemu zenye mitelemko mikali. Mmomonyoko wa udongo utasababisha maji kusambaa 

bila mpango mzuri na hivyo kuharibu ubora wa maji kwa kujaa udongo (siltation). 

Milima ya Usambara Mashariki kwa mantiki ni ‘visiwa’ (Lovett, 1989). Kumekuwa na misitu ya 

asili katika eneo hili kwa maelfu, kama si mamilioni, ya miaka. Misitu hii imekuwa katika mbinyo 

wa kinyonyaji wa binadamu, kwa uchache, kwa miaka 2,000 (Schmidt, 1989). Hadi hivi karibuni, 

hasa hadi miaka 50 iliyopita, (Kikula, 1989), mbinyo huu umekuwa endelevu. Ingawa, ongezeko la 

haraka la watu katika eneo hili linaongeza mbinyo kwa misitu ya asili iliyobakia, na hivyo kuwa 

tishio kwa kuwepo kwake (Collar & Stuart, 1987). Misitu ya Usambara inabeba aina nyingi 

ambazo kijiografia zimetenganishwa kutoka ndugu zao wa karibu kwa muda mrefu. Vilevile inatoa 

hifadhi ya kwa mimea na Wanyama ambayo hapo zamani ilikuwa imetapakaa kila mahali lakini 



imetoweka katika maeneo mengi (Iversen, 1991). Uhifadhi na utunzaji wa eneo hili pekee la 

bayoanuwai ni lazima upewe umuhimu mkubwa. 

2.2 Programu Ya Utafiti Misitu Frontier Tanzania (FT FRP) 

Jumuiya ya Uvumbuzi wa Mazingira na Chuo Kikuu cha Dar es Salaam zimekuwa zikiendesha 

utafiti kwa pamoja juu ya masuala ya mazingira tangu Julai 1989 chini ya kichwa cha Programu ya 

Utafiti Misitu Frontier Tanzania (Frontier Tanzania Forest Research Programme) (FT FRP). 

Tangu Julai 1994, FT FRP imekuwa ikifanya kazi katika misitu ya Milima ya Usambara Mashariki 

ikishirikiana na Programu ya Uendelezaji Misitu Usambara Mashariki (EUCAMP). Utafiti wa 

maeneo yaliyochaguliwa unawezesha ukusanyaji wa taarifa za msingi za bayoanuwai na kusaidia 

EUCAMP katika uendelezaji wa misitu ya Usambara Mashariki. 

2.3 Utafiti wa Bayoanuwai Usambara Mashariki 

Ingawa kiasi cha kuridhisha cha taarifa za kibayolojia kutoka Usambara Mashariki zipo, nyingi kati 

yake zimelenga eneo la Amani pekee, na tafiti zilizopangiliwa ni chache. Ili kupata taarifa za 

kueleweka juu ya misitu, tafiti wa bayoanuwai zilianzishwa Julai 1995 zikisimamiwa na EUCAMP. 

Tafiti hizi zinaendeshwa na Frontier Tanzania, ushirikiano kati ya Chuo Kikuu cha Dar es Salaam na 

Jumuiya ya Uvumbuzi wa Mazingira, pamoja na EUCAMP, kama Utafiti wa Bayoanuwai Usambara 

Mashariki. Malengo makubwa ya utafiti huu ni: 

• kutoa taarifa za msingi (systematic baseline information) juu ya thamani za kibayolojia za misitu 

tofauti kama msingi wa mipango ya maendeleo na ufuatiliaji wa muda mrefu. 

• kutoa mafunzo katika mbinu za kibayolojia za ukusanyaji na kuweka rekodi (biological inventory 

techniques) kwa wafanyakazi wa EUCAMP. 

Tafiti hizi zitatumika kuweka mipango ya uhifadhi kwa eneo hili lenye thamani. 

Shughuli uwandani zimekuwa zikichukua kipindi cha wiki 10-12. Programu hii inahusisha 

wafanyakazi wa kudumu wa EUCAMP, Frontier, Chuo Kikuu cha Dar es Salaam, na wafanyakazi wa 

Taasisi ya Utafiti Misitu, vile vile mtandao wa kimataifa wa wataalamu. Wataalamu wa muda mfupi 

wa kujitolea wamekuwa pia wakichangia katika shughuli za uwandani kwa baadhi ya misitu ya 

hifadhi. Tafiti hizi tayari zimekwishagundua aina kadha wa kadha za mimea na Wanyama ambayo 

haikujulikana hapo kabla. Hii itaongeza mwamko wa upekee wa thamani ya uhifadhi wa misitu ya 

Usambara Mashariki. EUCAMP pia imeagiza undelezwaji wa taarifa (database) za bayoanuwai. 

Taarifa zote zinazokusanywa katika tafiti hizi zinaingizwa katika hii database ambapo inawezesha 

taarifa kupatikana kwa mameneja misitu na wanasayansi wote wa ndani na wa nje. 

2.4 Chuo Kikuu cha Dar es Salaam (UDSM) 

Chuo Kikuu cha Dar es Salaam kilianzishwa Julai 1970 kama kituo cha mafunzo na utafiti katika 

sanaa na sayansi halisi, asili, dunia, bahari, tiba, na binadamu. Chuo Kikuu hiki kinafanya utafiti na 

kuchora ramani za wanyama na mimea ya Tanzania na kinaendesha utafiti katika kurekebisha na 

kuboresha mazingira na utumiaji endelevu wa maliasili za Tanzania. 



2.5 Jumuiya ya Uvumbuzi wa Mazingira (SEE) 

Jumuiya hii ni kampuni isiyo ya kibiashara ya Uingereza ililoanzishwa 1989. Malengo ya Jumuiya 

hii ni kukuza utafiti wa uwandani katika masuala ya mazingira na kutekeleza miradi iliyopo 

inayochangia katika uhifadhi wa maliasili. Miradi iliyoandaliwa na Jumuiya ni juhudi za pamoja 

zilizotokana na kushirikiana na vitengo vya utafiti vya kitaifa katika nchi zinazoshirikiana nayo. 

3.0 MBINU NA MPANGO WA KAZI KWA UFUPI 

3.1 Mimea 

3.1.1 Kuweka Mistari ya Utafiti ni kukata njia zenye kusambaa kwa uwiano ndani ya msitu 

wa hifadhi. 

Kwanini: 

Kuwezesha kuwepo mlingano wa miraba ya mimea (vegetation plots) na 

kurahisisha mpangilio wa utafiti wa kinyesi na Uharibifu. 

Kwa vipi: 

Kundi la watu 4 huunda timu ya kutafiti mstari. 

Mpango wa kazi unaelekeza jinsi timu hii itakavyofanya kazi. 

Mistari ya utafiti inaweza kukatwa ndani ya msitu toka mpaka hadi mpaka katika mpango wa 

Mashariki-magharibi, au Kasikazini-kusini, kutegemeana na ukubwa na umbo la msitu wenyewe. 

Mistari hii inatoa mirabafito ambayo itabeba kiasi kikubwa iwezekanavyo cha Miraba ya Mimea. 

Kwa Msitu wa Hifadhi Nilo MISTARI YA UTAFITI imelala toka Mashariki kwenda Magharibi, 

MSTARI WA KATI ukipita Kasikazini-Kusini, (angalia mchoro 1). 

MISTARI YA UTAFITI 

• Urefu wa kila MSTARI WA UTAFITI unategemea umbali kati ya mipaka. 

• MISTARI YA UTAFITI inatiwa alama ya vitambaa 2 VYEKUNDU kwa kila mita 50 na 

vitambaa 3 VYEKUNDU kila baada ya mita 450 (Miraba ya Mimea hutengwa hapa) 

MISTARI YA KATI 



Hii hutumika kama njia za kufikia MISTARI YA UTAFITI 

• Urefu wa chini kabisa wa MISTARI YA KATI ni mita 900 na huungana na MISTARI 2 YA 

UTAFITI. 

• MISTARI YA KATI inatambulishwa kwa vipande 2 vya nguo VYA NJANO kila baada ya 

mita 50 na 3 kila baada ya mita 900. 

Utaratibu wa Kazi katika kukata MISTARI YA UTAFITI na MISTARI YA KATI 

1. Mtu mmoja atafyeka mimea kwa panga, akipima umbali wa mita 50 kwa kamba. Atatia alama 

kila mita 50 kwa vitambaa 2 vilivyofungwa kwenye mmea. Katika kila mita 450 vitambaa 3 

hufungwa. Urefu wa mistari ya utafiti huandikwa kwenye vitambaa hivi kwa kutumia kalamu 

itakayodumu. 

2. Mtu wa pili atamwelekeza mtu wa mwanzo kwa compass kuhakikisha mstari unanyooka. 

3. Mtu wa tatu atafunga kitambaa kimoja (kwa kadri kila baada ya mita 5) katika mimea ili 

kutambulisha njia. 

4. Mtu wa nne atarekodi taarifa za ukataji mistari ya utafiti na kuhakiki kwa compass kwamba njia 

ni kama ilivyopangwa. Mwinuko wa ardhi na umbali toka usawa wa bahari wakati wa kuanza 

kwa Urefu wa mita 50 vitarekodiwa, na kila kitu muhimu mfano miamba, kilimo, njia, vijito, 

n.k., vitanakiriwa. Kutokana na vipimo vya mwinuko, Urefu mwingine waweza kuongezwa 

katika umbali wa mita 50. Mwinuko ukiwa mkali ongezeko la Urefu litakuwa kubwa pia. 

Karatasi za Taarifa za Ukataji wa Mistari ya Utafiti zinatoa maelekezo yote. 

VIFAA VINAVYOTUMIKA – Kukata Mistari ya Utafiti 

Panga, 3 compasses, altimeter, clinometer, Kamba m50, Vipande vya nguo VYEKUNDU au 

NJANO, Kalamu, Kitabu cha Kuandikia kisichopitisha maji na Penseli. 

3.1.2. Miraba ya Mimea 

Miti yenye DBH kubwa zaidi ya sm 10 (upenyo katika Urefu wa m 1.3) itapimwa, itatiwa 

alama na kutambuliwa. 

Kwanini: Miraba ya mimea hugawanywa kwa usawa katika eneo zima la msitu wa hifadhi 

kuhakikisha hakuna upendeleo katika uwakirishi, na pia kuwezesha kazi ya ufuatiliaji hapo 

baadaye kufanyika. 

Kwa Vipi: Kundi la watu 3-4 wataunda timu ya kutafiti mraba wa mimea. 



MIRABA YA MIMEA ina eneo la wa m 20 x m 50. 

Mpango wa kazi unaonyesha jinsi timu itakavyofanya kazi. 

Mpango wa Kazi wa kuweka na kuanzisha MIRABA YA MIMEA 

1. MIRABA YA MIMEA huwekwa kila m 450 katika MISTARI YA UTAFITI (mahali 

ambapo vitambaa 3 VYEKUNDU vimefungwa kwenye mimea). 

2. Timu itaanzisha mraba kutoka kona ya KUSINI MASHARIKI kwa kutumia kamba mbili zenye 

m 50 na mbili zenye m 20. Compasses hutumika kuhakikisha kamba zinaumba mstatiri. Urefu 

wa m 20 mara zote huwa kasikazini. 

3. Mtu mmoja atapima DBH ya miti ndani ya mraba, akitumia kamba ya kupimia DBH (calibrated 

DBH tape). Miti yenye DBH sawa na au kubwa zaidi ya sm 10 ndiyo pekee itapimwa. 

(Wasiliana na wafanyakazi wa Frontier kuhusiana na vipimo vya DBH kwa miti yenye mashina 

mengi, yenye mizizi kwenye shina [buttressed] na iliyopinda). 

4. Mtu wa pili atarekodi DBH, idadi ya miti na mahali ilipo katika mraba. Mwinuko, uelekeo 

(aspect), umbali toka usawa wa bahari, na mahitaji yake (standardised habitat notes) 

vitarekodiwa kwa kila mraba, tazama Karatasi ya Taarifa za Mimea kwa ufafanuzi zaidi. 

5. Watu wawili waliobaki watafuata hali wakiandika namba ya mraba na namba ya mti upande 

wa kusini mwa kila mti uliotiwa rangi nyekundu (tazama Mchoro 2). 

6. Kila mraba baadaye utapitiwa na mwanabayoanuwai (botanist). 

• Kila mti uliopewa namba itatambuliwa aina yake na mwanabayoanuwai. 

• Maotea {regeneration} (miti iliyo chini ya sm 10 za DBH) hutambuliwa aina yake pia katika 

eneo la m 3 x 3 na m 6 x 6 ndani ya mraba, na udongo huelezewa pia. 

• Karatasi ya Taarifa za Maotea zinatoa maelezo ya ziada ya taarifa zinazorekodiwa. 

VIFAA VINAVYOTUMIKA – Miraba ya Mimea 

Kamba 2 x m 50, kamba 2 x m 20, Makopo 2 ya rangi, Brashi 2 za kupakia rangi, Kamba ya 

kupimia DBH, compasses 2, clinometer, altimeter, Kitabu cha Kuandikia kisichopitisha maji 

na Penseli. 



3.1.3 Ukusanyaji wa Mimea Isiyotegemewa (Opportunistic Botanical Collection) 

Ukusanyaji wa mitishamba, magugu (shrub) na sehemu za mti zisizo za kawaida. 

Kwanini: 

Kutengeneza orodha ya aina ya mitishamba na magugu ili kuongezea kwenye 

taarifa za miti na kuhifadhi sampuli kwa matumizi katika Kituo cha Taifa cha 

Utafiti wa Mimea (the National Herbarium) Arusha na kwa Taasisi za Utafiti 

wa Mimea za Kimataifa zitakazohitaji. 

Kwa vipi: 

• Sehemu za mimea zenye matunda na/au maua hukusanywa kwani zaweza Kusaidia 

utambuzi wa uhakika zaidi. 

• Shughuli hii sana sana hufanywa na Albert Ntemi (EUCAMP) muda wote wa shughuli za 

uwandani.. 

• Sehemu za mimea hubinywa, kukaushwa, kupewa namba, maelezo na taarifa za makazi 

(habitat notes) za eneo la ukusanyaji hurekodiwa. 

VIFAA VINAVYOTUMIKA – Ukusanyaji wa mimea 

secaturs, mifuko ya plastiki, kibinyio cha mimea, magazeti yasiyotumika, blotters, corrugated 

dividers, altimeter, kitabu cha kuandikia, penseli, ramani. 

3.1.4 Utafiti wa Kinyesi na Uharibifu 

Utafiti huu hufanyika katika MISTARI YA UTAFITI. 

Kwanini: 

• KINYESI hukusanywa ili kutambua kuwepo kwa wanyama ambao hawaonekani kirahisi 

na ambao hutembea usiku, kama vile Paa, na kupata taarifa kuhusu wingi wao katika 

msitu wa hifadhi. 

• UHARIBIFU hupimwa kupata vielelezo vya wingi wa mimea iliyovunwa na matatizo 

mengine ndani ya msitu yanayotokana na matumizi ya binadamu. 

Kwa vipi: 

Kundi la watu 4 huunda timu ya watafiti wa Kinyesi na Uharibifu. 

Utafiti hufanyika katika MISITARI YA UTAFITI 

Mpango wa Kazi unaonyesha njisi timu hii inavyofanyakazi. 



Mpango wa Kazi kwa UTAFITI WA KINYESI NA UHARIBIFU 

• Utafiti hufanyika baada ya MISTARI YA UTAFITI KUWEKWA. 

• Watu wawili, mmoja kila upande wa MSTARI WA UTAFITI huhesabu idadi ya miti 

iliyokatwa zamani na hivi karibuni, iliyo hai na iliyokufa kifo cha kawaida {natural dead poles} 

(miti ya kati ya sm 5 na sm 15 DBH) na mbao {timber} (miti mikubwa zaidi ya sm 15 DBH) 

katika m 5 za mstari wa utafiti. 

• Mtu wa tatu atatafuta vinyesi na kukusanya sampuli zake. 

• Mtu wa nne atarekodi taarifa kila m 50. Mbali na idadi ya miti (poles and timber), mtu huyu pia 

atarekodi vitu muhimu kama dalili za moto, mitego ya wanyama, kilimo, njia, mizigo ya kuni. 

• Karatasi ya Data za Uharibifu na Data za Kinyesi zinatoa maelezo zaidi. 

VIFAA VINAVYOTUMIKA – Utafiti wa Kinyesi na Uharibifu 

Panga, makopo (ya kukusanyia kinyesi), kipimo cha DBH, kamba ya kupimia m 10, kitabu 

cha kuandikia kisichopitisha maji, penseli. 

3.2 Kazi za Kizoolojia 

Kwanini 

• Lengo la kazi hii ya utafiti ni kutengeneza orodha ya aina mbalimbali za mamalia, 

amphibia, reptilia na makundi yaliyochaguliwa ya wanyama wasio na uti wa mgongo 

(invertebrates) ndani ya hifadhi. 

• Baadhi ya wanyama walichaguliwa kwa utafiti. Hawa ni panya (rodents, shrews), 

popo, vyura, nyoka, mijusi, vipepeo, majongoo, konokono na ndege. Kuna sababu kuu 4 za 

kuchagua wanyama hawa kwa utafiti: 

1. Kuna wataalamu kitaifa na kimataifa walipenda kutambua wanyama hawa. 

2. Wanyama hawa wanauwezekano wa kutafitiwa vizuri katika muda uliowekwa. 

3. Tayari kuna kazi zilizokwisha kuandikwa kuhusu wanyama hawa ambazo zinaweza 

Kusaidia utambuzi uwandani. 

4. Hata hivyo ni taarifa ndogo sana zimeshaandikwa kuhusiana na ikolojia ya wanyama 

hawa na nyingi hazifahamiki. Hivyo, katika kukusanyia sampuli na data za ikolojia, 

taarifa za kisayansi zaweza kuongezeka na hivyo Kusaidia katika utunzaji wa misitu ya 

hifadhi. 



Kwa vipi 

Kundi hilo la wanyama hapo juu kwa ujumla hutafitiwa katika maeneo ya mitego kwa 

kutumia njia mbalimbali na kwa kutumia Uchunguzi wa Vitu Visivyotegemewa 

(opportunistic observations). 

VIFAA VINAVYOTUMIKA – Kazi za Kizoolojia 

Mitego 100 ya Sherman, Mitego 33 ya ndoo, m 9, m 6, m 3 nyavu za popo, vipepeo, Mitego juu 

ya miti (canopy traps), vyandarua vya vipepeo. 

3.2.1. Maeneo ya Mitego 

Muda Uliowekwa: 

Sehemu: 

Njia: 

Siku 10 za kutega usiku 

Makazi wakirishi katika hifadhi. 

Njia tofauti hutumika kwa wanyama tofauti (Tazama chini kwa maelezo) 

3.2.1.1 Mtego wa Sherman (Sherman Live Trapping) 

Panya hukamatwa kwa kutumia mtego wa Sherman, ambao hauwadhuru wanyama. Mitego 100 

hutegwa katika mistari mitatu ikizunguka mstari wa mitego ya ndoo (tazama chini). Mitego 33 

huwekwa m 2 kutoka mmoja hadi mwingine kuzunguka mstari wa shimo. Mitego huwekwa kila 

jioni na kuangaliwa kila asubuhi ya siku inayofuata. Kila mamalia inayokamatwa hupimwa uzito, 

urefu na taarifa za makazi hurekodiwa. Kwa habari zaidi tazama Karatasi ya Data za Sampuli. 

3.2.1.2 Mtego wa Ndoo (Bucket pitfall trapping) 

Mtego wa ndoo unahusisha misitari mitatu yenye ndoo 11 za plastiki zenye ukubwa wa lita 20 kila 

moja ambazo huchimbiwa ardhini (mashimo huchimbwa na ndoo kuwekwa ndani yake). Ndoo hizi 

huwekwa kama m 5 kutoka kila moja. Kipande cha plastiki hulazwa ardhini katika mstari mnyoofu 

ikipita katikati ya kila ndoo. Wanyama huelekezwa kufuata plastiki hiyo hadi kwenda kudumbukia 

kwenye ndoo. Panya (shozwe), vyura, na nyoka kwa ujumla hukamatwa kwenye ndoo. Karatasi 

ya Data za Sampuli zinatoa taarifa zilizorekodiwa za wakati mnyama alipokamatwa. 

3.2.1.3 Utegaji wa Popo kwa Nyavu (Bat netting) 

Nyavu (mist nets) hutumika kuanzia machweo hadi mawio. Nyavu huwekwa karibu na wanapolala 

popo na sehemu wanazopita warukapo (flight “corridors”), kama vile njiani na kwenye vijito. 

Utegaji huu hufanyika katika maeneo yote ya kutegea (trap site) na sehemu nyingine zifaazo, kama 

muda unavyoruhusu. Kila popo anayekamatwa hupimwa uzito na Urefu katika eneo la mitego. 

Karatasi ya Data za Sampuli zinatoa taarifa zilizorekodiwa za wakati mnyama alipokamatwa. 

3.2.1.4 Vipepeo 

Vipepeo hukusanywa kwa kutumia mitego ya juu ya miti (canopy traps) na vyandarua (sweep nets). 

Mitego ya juu ya miti huwekwa katika Urefu tofauti katika kila eneo tofauti la mitego. Ndizi 

iliyooza hutumika kama chambo. Mitego ilikaguliwa kila mchana. Mitego huwekwa kwa siku 10 

katika kila eneo la mitego. Vipepeo hukamatwa kwa kutumia vyandarua (sweep nets) kwa saa moja 

kati ya saa 6 na 8 mchana kwa kila siku kumi za Utegaji. 



3.2.1.5 Konokono na Majongoo (Molluscs & Millipedes) 

Maeneo matatu yenye makazi madogo madogo wakilishi huchaguliwa katika kila eneo la utegaji. 

Katika kila eneo mraba wa m 1 x m 1 huanzishwa kutafiti Konokono, na m 3 x m 3 kwa 

majongoo. Katika kila mraba majani yaliyodondoka na udongo sm 3 za mwanzo huchunguzwa 

vizuri kupata Konokono au majongoo. Kila Sampuli kukusanywa. 

3.2.2 Uchunguzi wa Vitu Visivyotegemewa (opportunistic Observations) 

Uchunguzi wa wanyama wengine, hasa jamii ya nyani, hurekodiwa wakati wote wa utafiti. Ndege 

huchunguzwa katika hali ya kawaida kwani huwa hawakusanywi kwa utaratibu. Ukamataji wa 

reptilia na amphibia zisizotegemewa (opportunistic) huweza kufanywa kwa mkono, au kwa kutumia 

mti inapobidi. Baada ya kipindi cha mvua, makazi halisi ya amphibia hutafutwa kwa ajili ya 

uchaguzi katika utafiti. Vipepeo aidha hukusanywa katika hali ya kawaida mbali na ifanyikavyo 

kwenye maeneo ya mitego 



4.0 MICHORO 

Mchoro 1: Unaonyesha njia ya kuweka mistari ya utafiti ambapo 

T1=Mstari wa utafiti 1,. CL1=Mstari wa kati 1, = Eneo la mraba wa mimea 

= Mwinuko mkali usiofikika. 

Mchoro 1 

T1 

CL1 

CL2 

N 

m 450 

m 900 

T2 

T3 

T4 

Mchoro 2. Mchoro wenye upenyo usawa wa kifua (DBH) wa mti (>sm 10 DBH) na Utaratibu wa 

kutia rangi. Namba ya mraba (mf. 20) huandikwa juu ya namba ya mti (mf. 2), na mstari kati yake 

kuonyesha wapi DBH ilipimwa. 

Mchoro 2 

Mti 

DBH 

20 

2 

1.3m juu ya ardhi 

Mfano: 

20 = Namba ya Mraba wa mimea 

2 = Namba ya mti 



5.0 VIFAA VINAVYOTAKIWA 

Maafisa wa EUCAMP wanatakiwa kuleta vitu vifuatavyo wakati wa kushiriki katika EUBS: 

1. Buti imara za kutembelea 

2. Chupa ya maji 

3. Nguo za kutia joto na zenye kuzuia maji. 

4. Kitabu (Note book) na kalamu 

5. Begi la kubebea Vifaa binafsi. 

6.0 REJEA 

Collar, N. J. & Stuart, S.N. (1987) Priorities for conservation action. ICBP Monograph No. 3 

(1998). Cambridge. 

Howell, K. M. (1993) The East Usambara Fauna. In A.C. Hamilton & R. Bensted-Smith (eds.). 

Forest Conservation in the East Usambara Mountains, Tanzania. IUCN, Gland, Switzerland. 

Iversen, S. T. (1991a) The Usambara mountains, NE Tanzania: Phytogeography of the vascular 

plant flora. Uppsala University, Uppsala. 

Iversen, S. T. (1991b) The Usambara mountains, NE Tanzania: History, Vegetation and 

conservation. Uppsala University, Uppsala. 

Kikula, I. S. (1989) Spatial changes in forest cover on the East Usambara mountains. In A. C. 

Hamilton & R. Bensted-Smith (eds.). Forest conservation in the East Usambara Mountains 

Tanzania. IUCN, Gland. Pp 79-86. 

Lovett, J. C. (1993) Eastern Arc moist forest flora. In J.C. Lovett, & S. K. Wasser (eds.). 

Biogeography and ecology of the rain forests of eastern Africa. Cambridge University Press, 

Cambridge. Pp 33-56. 

Rodgers, W. A. (1996) Biodiversity values of Tanzanian forests: A training and awareness manual 

for forest managers and conservationists. FAO, Dar es Salaam. 

Rodgers, W. A. & Homewood, K. M. (1982) The conservation of the East Usambara Mountains, 

Tanzania: a review of biological values and land use pressures. Biol. J. Linn. Soc. 24: 285-304 

Schmidt, P. (1989) Early exploitation and settlement in the Usambara mountains. In A.C. 

Hamilton & R. Bensted-Smith (eds.). Forest conservation in the East Usambara Mountains, 




SEE (1996) Frontier Tanzania Forest Research Programme: Methodology report ‘Old and New’. L. 

Stubblefield & P. Cunneyworth eds. Technical paper of the Society for Environmental Exploration, 

London. 

Tye, A. (1994) Magoroto rainforest conservation – Proposal for establishment of a new reserve. 

EUCDP, IUCN, Tanzania (unpubl.). 

7.0 MUHIMU 

Kwa habari zaidi kuhusiana na Malengo na mbinu za utafiti za EUBS Rejea katika Hadidu za Rejea 

za EUBS, mtiririko wa Majarida ya Kitaalamu ya EUCAMP na Mbinu za Utafiti za SEE ‘Za kale 

na za sasa’. 

Kwa habari zaidi kuhusu Milima ya Usambara Mashariki na Safu ya Milima ya Mashariki pitia 

vitabu vya Rejea hapo juu na pia makala za kiufundi za EUCAMP, na hasa kutoka Utafiti wa 

Bayoanuwai Misitu ya Hifadhi, makala namba 30 nakuendelea. 

8.0 MAWASILIANO 


Programu ya Utafiti Misitu 

S L P 9473 

Dar es Salaam 

E-mail: frontier@twiga.com 

Tel: 022 2700729 

EUCAMP 

S L P 5869 

Tanga 

Meneja wa Programu: 

Mshauri Mkuu wa Ufundi: 

Mratibu wa Bayoanuwai: 

Mratibu wa Bayoanuwai / mwanabayoanuwai: 

Mr. E. Nashanda 

Dr. V. Pohjonen 

Mr. Raymond Killenga 

Mr. Albert Ntemi 


AN INTRODUCTION TO 

EAST USAMBARA BIODIVERSITY SURVEYS (EUBS), 

FIELD TECHNIQUES 

Contents 

1.0 Aims 16 

2.0 Introduction 16 

2.1 Why are the East Usambara Forests so important 16 

2.2 Frontier Tanzania Forest Research Programme 17 

2.3 East Usambara Biodiversity Surveys 17 

2.4 University of Dar-es-Salaam 17 

2.5 The Society for Environmental Exploration 17 

3.0 Summarised Methodologies and Working Procedures 18 

3.1 Vegetation 18 

3.1.1 Transecting 18 

3.1.2 Vegetation Plots 20 

3.1.3 Opportunistic Botanical Collections 21 

3.1.4 Dung and Disturbance Surveys 22 

3.2 Zoological Work 23 

3.2.1 Trap sites 24 

3.2.1.1 Sherman Trapping 24 

3.2.1.2 Bucket Pitfall Trapping 24 

3.2.1.3 Mist Netting (Birds) 24 

3.2.1.4 Butterflies 24 

3.2.1.5 Molluscs and Millipedes 24 

3.2.2 Opportunistic Observations 24 

4.0 Diagrams 25 

5.0 Equipment Required 26 

6.0 References 26 

7.0 Notes 27 

8.0 Contacts 27 


UTANGULIZI WA NJIA ZA UTAFITI ZA EUBS / AN INTRODUCTION TO EUBS FIELD TECHNIQUES 

1.0 AIMS 

• To provide summary information with regard to field techniques, methodologies and working 

procedures of the East Usambara Biodiversity Survey (EUBS) for EUCAMP Forestry Officers. 

• To support field training. 

• To provide as a reference for the future. 

2.0 INTRODUCTION 

2.1 Why are the East Usambara Forests so important 

The East Usambara mountains form part of a chain known as the Eastern Arc. These mountains 

stretch down the coast of East Africa from southern Kenya to southern Tanzania. The East 

Usambara rainforests are one of the most valuable conservation areas in Africa. Several plant and 

animals are found only in the East Usambara mountains. The rainforests secure the water supply of 

200,000 people and the local people in the mountains depend on these forests. 

More than one hundred years of biological interest and research has shown that East Usambara forests 

have a unique diversity of flora and fauna, and an exceptionally high degree of endemism. They are 

globally listed as a biodiversity hotspot and centre of plant diversity. The forests have been likened to 

the African equivalent of the Galapagos Islands in terms of their endemism and biodiversity 

(Rogers & Homewood, 1982; Howell, 1989). They are considered to be one of the most important 

forest blocks in Africa (Tye, 1994). Currently, around 2,800 taxa of plants have been recorded of 

which it is suggested that over one quarter are endemic or near-endemic (Iversen, 1991). Many 

species are threatened (Rodgers, 1996). 

In addition to the biodiversity value, the East Usambara forests are essential for the conservation of 

water resources. The forests play an important role in maintaining the hydrological cycle which 

feeds the Sigi river. The Sigi river is a vital water source for local communities and the large 

coastal town of Tanga. Deforestation in the area will lead to increased soil erosion particularly 

from the steeper slopes. Soil erosion is liable to result in more irregular run off and will deteriorate 

water quality due to siltation. 

The East Usambaras are essentially forest ‘islands’ (Lovett, 1989). There has been natural forest in 

the area for thousands, if not millions, of years. These forests have been under continuous 

exploitative human pressure for at least 2,000 years (Schmidt, 1989). Until recently, especially 

until the past 50 years, (Kikula, 1989), this pressure has been sustainable. However, rapid human 

population growth in the area is increasing pressure on the remaining natural forest, and represents 

the main threat to their survival (Collar & Stuart, 1987). The Usambaras harbour many species 

which have been geographically separated from their closest relatives for long periods. They also 

serve as a refuge for formerly widespread flora and fauna that have become extinct over much of 

their former area (Iversen, 1991). The conservation and preservation of this unique area of 

biodiversity should be given high priority. 



2.2 Frontier Tanzania Forest Research Programme (FT FRP) 

The Society for Environmental Exploration and the University of Dar es Salaam have been 

conducting collaborative research into environmental issues since July 1989 under the title of the 

Frontier Tanzania Forest Research Programme (FT FRP). Since July 1994, the FT FRP has 

been working in the forests of the East Usambara mountains in collaboration with the East 

Usambara Catchment Area Management Programme (EUCAMP). The survey of selected forest 

reserves enables the collection of baseline biodiversity data and assists the EUCAMP in the 

management of the East Usambara forests. 

2.3 East Usambara Biodiversity Surveys 

Although a considerable amount of biological information exists from the East Usambaras much of 

this is restricted to the Amani area, and systematic surveys are few. In order to get more comprehensive 

information on the forests, biodiversity surveys were initiated and contracted by EUCAMP in July 

1995. The surveys are conducted by Frontier Tanzania, a joint venture between the University of Dar 

es Salaam and the Society for Environmental Exploration, together with EUCAMP, as the East 

Usambara Biodiversity Surveys. The main aim of the surveys are: 

• to provide systematic baseline information on the biological values of different forests as a basis 

for management planning and long-term monitoring 

• to provide training in biological inventory techniques for EUCAMP staff. 

The surveys will be used in setting conservation priorities for this valuable area. 

The field work has been carried out over 10-12 week field phases. The programme involves, 

permanent EUCAMP, Frontier, University of Dar es Salaam, and Tanzania Forestry Research Institute 

staff, as well as an international network of taxonomists and other experts. Short term expatriate 

volunteers have also contributed to field work within some forest reserves. The surveys have already 

resulted in the discovery of several previously unknown taxa. This will further raise awareness of the 

unique conservation values of the East Usambaras. EUCAMP has also commissioned the development 

of a biodiversity database. All data collected during the surveys is entered in this database which 

allows information to be available to forest managers and scientists, both locally and internationally. 

2.4 The University of Dar es Salaam (UDSM) 

The University of Dar es Salaam was established in July 1970 as a centre for learning and research 

in the arts and the physical, natural, earth, marine, medical and human sciences. The University is 

surveying and mapping the flora and fauna of Tanzania and is conducting research into the 

maintenance and improvement of the environment and the sustainable exploitation of Tanzania’s 

natural resources. 

2.5 The Society for Environmental Exploration (SEE) 

The Society is a non-profit making UK based company limited by guarantee and was formed in 

1989. The Society’s objectives are to advance field research into environmental issues and 

implement practical projects contributing to the conservation of natural resources. Projects 

organised by The Society are joint initiatives developed in collaboration with national research 

agencies in co-operating countries. 



3.0 SUMMARISED METHODOLOGIES AND WORKING 

PROCEDURES 

3.1 Vegetation 

3.1.1 Transecting is the cutting of evenly distributed (systematic) paths through the forest 

reserve. 

Why: 

To enable the even distribution (systematic positioning) of vegetation plots and 

provide the framework for the disturbance and dung surveys. 

How: 

A group of 4 people make up a transecting team. 

The Working Procedure outlines how the team works. 

Transect lines can be cut across the forest reserve from border to border in an East-West or North- 

South direction, depending upon the size and shape of the forest reserve. They provide a grid that 

will contain the maximum number of vegetation plots possible. 

In the case of Nilo Forest Reserve TRANSECT LINES run East-West with CENTRAL LINES 

running North-South, (see Diagram 1). 

TRANSECT LINES 

• The length of each TRANSECT LINE is dependent upon the distance between the borders. 

• TRANSECT LINES are marked with 2 RED tags every 50m and 3 RED tags every 450m (the 

vegetation plots are demarcated at this point) 



CENTRAL LINES 

• These are used as access routes to the TRANSECT LINES 

• The minimum length of a CENTRAL LINE is 900m and will connect 2 TRANSECT LINES. 

• CENTRAL LINES are marked with 2 YELLOW tags every 50m and 3 YELLOW tags ever 

900m. 

Working Procedure for cutting TRANSECT LINES and CENTRAL LINES 

5. One person slashes vegetation with a panga, measuring the distance with a 50m rope. He/she 

marks every 50m with 2 tags which are tied to the vegetation. At every 450m, 3 tags are tied. 

Transect lengths are written on the tags in permanent pen. 

6. A second person directs the person in front with a compass to maintain a straight line. 

7. A third person ties single tags (generally every 5 m) to vegetation to mark the route. 

8. A fourth person, records the transecting information and checks with a compass that the route is 

accurate. The slope and altitude at the starting point of the 50m length is recorded and any 

significant feature such as rock outcrops, cultivation, paths, streams etc. noted. From the slope 

measurement, additional length may be added to the 50m distance. The stepper the slope the 

greater the additional meterage (ongeza). The Transecting Data Sheets provide the details. 

EQUIPMENT USED - Transecting 

Panga, 3 compasses, altimeter, clinometer, 50m rope, RED or YELLOW tags, marker pen, 

water proof note book and pencil. 



3.1.2. Vegetation Plots 

Trees with a DBH greater than 10cm (diameter at breast height – 1.3m) are 

measured, marked and identified. 

Why: 

Vegetation plots are evenly (systematically) positioned throughout the forest 

reserve to enable a non-biased representation of the forest reserve and to allow 

future monitoring work to be carried out. 

How: 

A group of 3-4 people make up a Vegetation Plot team. 

VEGETATION PLOTS are 20m x 50m in size. 


Working Procedure for positioning and establishing VEGETATION PLOTS 

7. VEGETATION PLOTS are positioned every 450m along the TRANSECT LINES (where 

there are 3 RED tags tied to the vegetation). 

8. The team establishes the plot from the SOUTH EAST corner by using two 50m ropes and two 

20m ropes. Compasses are used to ensure ropes form a rectangle. The 20m length is always to 

the North. 

9. One person measures the DBH of the trees within the plot, using a calibrated DBH tape. Only 

trees with a DBH equal to or greater than 10cm are measured. (Refer to Frontier staff 

concerning DBH measurement of multi-stemmed, buttressed and leaning trees). 

10. A second person records the DBH, tree number and the position of the tree within the plot. 

Slope, aspect, altitude and standardised habitat notes are recorded at each plot, see Vegetation 

Data Sheets for the details. 

11. The two remaining people follow and paint the plot number and tree number on the southside 

of each tree with red paint (see Diagram 2). 

12. Each vegetation plot is later visited by a botanist. 

• Every numbered tree is identified to species by the botanist. 

• Regeneration (trees less than 10cm DBH) are also identified to species level in 3 x 3m and 6 x 

6m plots and the soil is described. 

• The Regeneration Data Sheets provide details of information recorded. 



EQUIPMENT USED – Vegetation Plots 

2 x 50m rope, 2 x 20m rope, 2 x small pots of paint, 2 x paint brushes, DBH tape measure, 2 x 

compasses, clinometer, altimeter, waterproof note book, pencil 

3.1.3. Opportunistic Botanical Collection 

The collection of herb, shrub and unusual tree material. 

Why: 

To produce a species list of herbs and shrubs to compliment the tree data and 

preserve specimens for use at the National Herbarium in Arusha and interested 

international botanical institutions. 

How: 

• Plant material with fruits and/or flowers are collected as they can be identified with 

greater accuracy. 

• This activity is primarily carried out by Albert Ntemi (EUCAMP) throughout the field 

work. 

• Plant material is pressed, dried, numbered, described and habitat notes are recorded of 

the collection site. 

EQUIPMENT USED – Plant Collection 

secaturs, plastic bags, plant press, old newspapers, blotters, corrugated dividers, altimeter, 

note book, pencil, map. 



3.1.4 Dung and Disturbance Surveys 

These are carried out along all the TRANSECT LINES. 

Why: 

• DUNG is collected to identify the presence of rarely seen and nocturnal animals, such as 

Duiker and provide information regarding their abundance within the forest reserve 

• DISTURBANCE is assessed to provide an indication of the quantity of wood harvested 

and other pressures upon the forest reserve as a result of human population use. 

How: A group of 4 people make up a Dung and Disturbance survey team. 

The survey is carried out along the TRANSECT LINES 


Working Procedure for DUNG AND DISTURBANCE SURVEY 

• The survey is carried out once the TRANSECT LINE has been cut. 

• Two people, one positioned either side of the TRANSECT LINE counts the number of old cut, 

new cut, live and natural dead poles (trees between 5 cm and 15cm DBH) and timber (trees 

greater than 15cm DBH) within 5 m of the transect line. 

• A third person searches for dung and collects samples. 

• A fourth person records the data every 50m. In addition to the numbers of poles and timber, this 

person records significant features such as evidence of fire, animal traps, cultivation, access 

paths, fuelwood bundles. 

• The Disturbance Data Sheet and Dung Data Sheet provide the more detailed information. 

EQUIPMENT USED – Dung and Disturbance Survey 

Panga, pots (to collect dung), DBH tape, 10m tape measure, waterproof note book, pencil. 



3.2 Zoological work 

Why 

• The aim of this survey work is to compile species inventory lists of mammals, amphibians, 

reptiles and selected groups of invertebrates within the forest reserve. 

• Certain animals were selected to survey. These are rodents, shrews, bats, frogs, snakes, 

lizards, butterflies, millipedes, molluscs and birds. There are 4 main reasons for surveying 

these groups of animals: 

5. There are national and international experts who are willing to formally identify the 

animals. 

6. These animals can be studied effectively within the time frame. 

7. There is published literature regarding some of the above animal groups, which can aid 

field identification. 

8. However, there is little comprehensive ecological data published regarding most of the 

animal groups and many are poorly understood. Thus through the collection of specimens 

and ecological data, scientific knowledge can be increased and in turn aid the conservation 

of the forest reserves. 

How 

The above groups of animals are generally surveyed at trap sites by a variety of methods and 

through opportunistic observations. 

EQUIPMENT USED – Zoological work 

100 Sherman live traps, 33 Bucket pitfall traps, 9m, 6m, 3m Bat mist nets, butterfly canopy 

traps, butterfly sweep nets 



3.2.1 Trap sites 

Time frame: 

Locations: 

Methods: 

10 night trapping period 

representative habitats within a forest reserve. 

different methods are used to survey different species (see below for further details). 

3.2.1.1 Sherman Live Trapping 

Rodents are sampled using Sherman live traps, which do not harm the animal. 100 traps are 

generally set out in three lines, surrounding the bucket pitfall trap lines (see below). 33 traps are 

positioned at least 2m apart around the pitfall lines. Traps are set each evening and checked early 

the following morning. Each mammal caught is weighed, measured and habitat notes are recorded, 

for details see Specimen Data Sheets. 

3.2.1.2 Bucket pitfall trapping 

The bucket pitfall traps consist of three lines of 11, 20 litre plastic buckets sunk in to ground (holes 

are dug and the buckets are placed in the holes). These are positioned approximately 5 m apart. A 

continuous piece of plastic sheeting runs in a straight line over the ground and the centre of each 

bucket. Animals are channelled along the plastic and fall in to the buckets. Shrews, frogs and 

snakes are generally caught in the buckets. The Specimen Data Sheets provide details of the 

information recorded when an animal is caught. 

3.2.1.3 Bat netting 

Mist nets are used from dusk until dawn to sample bats. Nets are placed near potential roost sites 

and across flight “corridors”, such as paths and streams. Netting is carried out at each trap site and 

other suitable sites, as time will allow. Each bat caught is weighed and measured at the netting site. 

The Specimen Data Sheets provide details of the information recorded when an animal is caught. 

3.2.1.4 Butterflies 

Butterflies are sampled using canopy traps and sweep nets. Canopy traps are set at different 

heights within the tree canopy at each trap site. Rotting banana is used as bait. Traps were checked 

at midday. Traps are set for 10 days in each of trap site. Butterflies are caught with sweep nets for 

one hour between the hours of 12:00 and 14:00 for each of the 10 day trapping period. 

3.2.1.5 Molluscs & Millipedes 

Three sites with representative microhabitats are selected at each trap site. At each of these sites a 

1m x 1m quadrat is established to survey molluscs and 3m x 3m quadrat is established to survey 

millipedes. In each square, the leaf litter and the first 3 cm of soil is searched carefully for molluscs 

or millipedes. All specimens are collected. 

3.2.2 Opportunistic Observations 

Observations of other mammals, particularly primates, are recorded throughout the survey. Birds 

are observed on a casual basis as they are not sampled systematically. Opportunistic captures of 

reptiles and amphibians can be made by hand, or with a snake stick where necessary. After rain, 

typical amphibian habitats are targeted for sampling. Butterflies are also collected casually in 

addition to those found at trap sites. 



4.0 DIAGRAMS 

Diagram 1: Shows transecting methodology where T1=Transect 1, CL1=Central Line 1, 

. = Vegetation plot position = inaccessible cliff 

Diagram 1 

T1 

CL1 

CL2 

N 

450m 

900m 

T2 

T3 

T4 

Diagram 2. 

A diagram of diameter at breast height (DBH) measurement of trees (>10cm DBH) and the 

painting protocol. Plot number (e.g. 20) is painted above tree number (e.g. 2), with a line between 

the two showing where the DBH was measured. 

Diagram 2 

Tree 

DBH 

20 

2 

1.3m above ground 

Example: 

20 = Vegetation Plot number 

2 = Tree number 



5.0 EQUIPMENT REQUIRED 

EUCAMP Officers are required to bring the following during participation with EUBS: 

• Strong walking boots 

• Water bottle 

• Warm and waterproof clothing 

• Note book and pen 

• Ruc-sac or bag to carry their belongings. 

6.0 REFERENCES 

Collar, N. J. & Stuart, S.N. (1987) Priorities for conservation action. ICBP Monograph No. 3 

(1998). Cambridge. 

Howell, K. M. (1993) The East Usambara Fauna. In A.C. Hamilton & R. Bensted-Smith (eds.). 

Forest Conservation in the East Usambara Mountains, Tanzania. IUCN, Gland, Switzerland. 

Iversen, S. T. (1991a) The Usambara mountains, NE Tanzania: Phytogeography of the vascular 

plant flora. Uppsala University, Uppsala. 

Iversen, S. T. (1991b) The Usambara mountains, NE Tanzania: History, Vegetation and 

conservation. Uppsala University, Uppsala. 

Kikula, I. S. (1989) Spatial changes in forest cover on the East Usambara mountains. In A. C. 

Hamilton & R. Bensted-Smith (eds.). Forest conservation in the East Usambara Mountains 


Lovett, J. C. (1993) Eastern Arc moist forest flora. In J.C. Lovett, & S. K. Wasser (eds.). 

Biogeography and ecology of the rain forests of eastern Africa. Cambridge University Press, 

Cambridge. Pp 33-56. 

Rodgers, W. A. (1996) Biodiversity values of Tanzanian forests: A training and awareness manual 

for forest managers and conservationists. FAO, Dar es Salaam. 

Rodgers, W. A. & Homewood, K. M. (1982) The conservation of the East Usambara Mountains, 

Tanzania: a review of biological values and land use pressures. Biol. J. Linn. Soc. 24: 285-304 

Schmidt, P. (1989) Early exploitation and settlement in the Usambara mountains. In A.C. 

Hamilton & R. Bensted-Smith (eds.). Forest conservation in the East Usambara Mountains, 




SEE (1996) Frontier Tanzania Forest Research Programme: Methodology report ‘Old and New’. 

L. Stubblefield & P. Cunneyworth eds. Technical paper of the Society for Environmental 

Exploration, London. 

Tye, A. (1994) Magoroto rainforest conservation – Proposal for establishment of a new reserve. 

EUCDP, IUCN, Tanzania (unpubl.). 

7.0 NOTES 

For further details regarding aims and methodologies of EUBS refer to the EUBS Terms of 

Reference, the Technical Paper series of EUCAMP and the SEE Methodologies ‘Old and New’. 

For further information with regard to the East Usambara Mountains and the Eastern Arc Mountains 

refer to the above references and those of the EUCAMP Technical Paper series, in particular from 

Forest Reserve Biodiversity Surveys, Technical Paper 30 onwards. 

8.0 CONTACTS 


Forest Research Programme 

PO Box 9473 

Dar es Salaam 

E-mail: frontier@twiga.com 

Tel: 022 2700729 

EUCAMP 

PO Box 5869 

Tanga 

Programme Manager: 

Chief Technical Adviser: 

Mr. E. Nashanda 

Dr. V. Pohjonen 

Biodiversity Co-ordinator: Mr. Raymond Killenga 

Biodiversity Co-ordinator / Botanist: Mr. Albert Ntemi 



East Usambara Conservation Area Management Programme Technical Paper 

Series 

(ISSN 1236-620X) 

The East Usambara Conservation Area Management Programme Technical Papers Series consists of reports 

on forestry issues in the East Usambara Mountains. This series started in 1991. These reports aim to make 

information more widely available to staff members of the East Usambara Conservation Area Management 

Programme, to the Forestry and Beekeeping Division, and to other institutions and individuals concerned and 

interested in the conservation of the East Usambara forests. 

The reports are prepared by staff members of the East Usambara Conservation Area Management 

Programme or by other researchers, consultants and interested individuals. The views expressed in the 

reports are those of the author(s). 

Current titles in the series are: 

1. Mwihomeke, S.T. 1991. Some notes to identify and discuss cooperation in forestry research in 

the East Usambara mountains. 

Räsänen, P.K. 1991. Outline of a research planning programme for the East Usambara 

Catchment Forest Project. 

2. Hyytiäinen, K. 1992. Forest management plan for Longuza teak plantations. 

3. Seymour, M. 1992. Manual harvesting of Maesopsis eminii in the East Usambara mountains, 

Tanzania. 

4. Newmark, W.D. 1992. Recommendations for wildlife corridors and the extension and 

management of forest reserves in the East Usambara mountains, Tanzania. 

5. Häkkinen, I. & Wambura, M. 1992. A Frame plan for the Amani Nature Reserve. 

6. Masilingi, W.M.K. 1992. Consultancy report on the legal establishment of the Amani Nature 

Reserve. 

7. Binagi, E.R. 1992. Consolidation of environmental education for adults: critique of FINNIDAfunded 

forestry projects in Tanzania. A case study of the East Usambara Catchment 

Forest Project. 

8. Tuominen, V. 1993. Marking of the forest reserve boundaries in the East Usambara mountains. 

9. Pirttilä, I. 1993. The discharge of Sigi River as an indicator of water catchment value of the East 

Usambara mountains in Tanzania. 

10. Hyytiäinen, K. 1993. Combined seed and timber production in Longuza Teak plantations, 

Tanzania. 

11. Kajembe, G.C. & Mwaseba, D. 1994. The extension and communication programme for the 

East Usambara Catchment Forest Project. 

12. Hyytiäinen, K. 1995. Land use classification and mapping for the East Usambara Mountains. 

13. Hall, J.B. 1995. Maesopsis eminii and its status in the East Usambara Mountains. 

14. Heinonen, P. 1995. PSPs in East Usambara Mountains: present findings and future 

recommendations. 

15. Mnyuku, F.C.N. 1995. Report on an inventory of selected proposed forest reserves in Muheza 

District, Tanga Region. 

16. Kamugisha, S.M. & Materu, E.M.A. 1995. Preliminary results from a study on water flow and 

in Sigi and Bombo rivers in the East Usambara mountains. 

17. Ellman, A., Tye, A., Rwamugira, S., Mallya, B., Mahenge, F. and Mndolwa, A. 1995. 

Development of forest trails and drive routes in the Amani Nature Reserve. 

18. Ellman, A.E. 1996. Handing over the stick Report of a village forest management and farm 

forestry consultancy 

19. Kigula, J.J., Kijazi, M., Nyangasa, H., Mtango, J., Mahenge, F. 1998. Local communities 

aspirations and needs. 

20. Fowler, S. & Nyambo, B. 1996. Report of a short consultancy on the potential of biological 

control of invasive species in Amani Nature Reserve. International Institute for 

Biological Control & EUCFP. 



21 Howard, P.C. 1996. Baseline biological surveys in selected East Usambara forest reserves and 

forests, 1995-96 - project evaluation report 

22. Woodcock, K. 1995. Local utilisation and indigenous knowledge - two case studies on forest 

resources use in the East Usambara Mountains. 

23. Shaka J.M. & Msangi, A. 1996. Soils and vegetation of Bamba Ridge forest reserve, Maramba 

Division, Muheza District, Tanga. 

24. Shaka J.M. & Msangi, A. 1996. Soils and vegetation of Mlungui proposed forest reserve, 

Maramba Division, Muheza District, Tanga. 

25. Shaka J.M. & Msangi, A. 1996. Soils and vegetation of Kwamarimba and north Longuza forest 

reserve, Bombwera Division, Muheza District, Tanga. 

26. Shaka J.M., Kabushemera, W. & Msangi, A. 1996. Soils and vegetation of Kambai forest 

reserve, Bombwera Division, Muheza District, Tanga. 

27. Shelutete, M. 1996. Women in focus. Report of a consultancy on conservation and women in 

East Usambara. 

28. Johansson, S.G. & Sandy, R. 1996. Protected areas and public lands - land use in the East 

Usambara mountains. 

29. SEE. 1996. Biodiversity survey methods report. – Technical Paper of the Society for 

Environmental Exploration, London. 

30. Frontier Tanzania. 1996. Cunneyworth, P., Stubblefield, L. Fanning, E. & Howell, K.M. (eds.). 

Magaroto Forest. A biodiversity survey. 

31. Frontier Tanzania. 1996. Cunneyworth, P., Stubblefield, L. Fanning, E. & Howell, K.M. (eds.). 

Bamba Ridge Forest Reserve. A biodiversity survey. 

32. Frontier Tanzania.1996. Cunneyworth, P., Stubblefield, L. Fanning, E. & Howell, K.M. (eds.). 

Mlungui proposed forest reserve. A biodiversity survey. 

33. Frontier Tanzania.1996. Cunneyworth, P., Fanning, E. & Howell, K.M. (eds.). Kwamarimba 

Forest Reserve. A biodiversity survey. 

34. Frontier Tanzania.1996. Cunneyworth, P., Fanning, E. & Howell, K.M. (eds.). Longuza Forest 

Reserve. A biodiversity survey. 

35. Frontier Tanzania. 1996. Cunneyworth, P., Fanning, E. & Howell, K.M. (eds.). Kambai Forest 

Reserve. A biodiversity survey. 

36. Shaka, J.M., W. Kabushemera & A. Msangi.1997. A survey and vegetation of Semdoe 

proposed forest reserve, Bombwera Division, Muheza District, Tanga 

37. Vainio-Mattila, K., Mwasumbi, L. & Lahti, K. 1997. Traditional use of wild vegetables in East 

Usambara mountains. 

38. Sandy,R.P., Boniface, G. & Rajabu, I. 1997. A survey and inventory of the Amani Botanical 

Garden. 

39. Frontier Tanzania. 1999. Doggart, N .H., Dilger M., Kilenga, R. & Fanning, E. (eds.) Mtai 

Forest Reserve. A biodiversity survey. 

40. Frontier Tanzania.1999. Doggart, N., Cunneyworth, P., Dilger, M & Fanning, E. (eds.). 

Kwamgumi Forest Reserve . A biodiversity survey. 

41. Frontier Tanzania. 1999. Doggart, N., Joseph, L., Bayliss, J. & Fanning, E. (eds.). Manga forest 

reserve. A biodiversity survey. 

42. Frontier Tanzania 2001. Doggart, N. H., Doody, K. Z., Howell, K. M., and Fanning, E. (eds.) 

Semdoe Forest Reserve: A biodiversity survey. 

44. Doggart, N. 2000. The East Usambara biodiversity database: A user’s manual 

45. Jambiya, G. 2000. The Social Impact Assessment of the proposed Derema Forest Reserve and 

Wildlife Corridors. 

46. Kamugisha, S.M. 2000. Progress Report on water flow and sediment load in Sigi & Bombo 

rivers. 

47. Cordeiro, J. N. 2001. Population study on the Long-billed tailorbird in the East Usambara 

Mountains. 

48. Kobb, D. 1998. Forestry royalties in Tanga region: Paper versus reality 

50. Frontier Tanzania 2001. Doody, K. Z., Fanning, E. & Howell, K.M. (eds.). Segoma Forest 

Reserve: A biodiversity survey. 

51. Frontier Tanzania 2001. Doody, K.Z., Beharrell, N.K., Howell, K.M. and Fanning, E. (eds.) 

Mpanga Village Forest Reserve: A biodiversity survey. 

52. Frontier Tanzania 2001. Doody, K.Z., Howell, K.M. and Fanning, E. (eds.) Amani Nature 




53. Frontier Tanzania 2001. Beharrell, N.K., Howell, K.M. and Fanning, E. (eds.) Nilo Forest 


54. Frontier Tanzania 2002. Beharrell, N.K, Fanning, E., Howell, K.M., Staddon, S.C. & Stanwell- 

Smith, D. (eds.). East Usamabara Forest Monitoring. A test of procedures at Semdoe 

and Kwamgumi forest reserves.

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